Who Should I Start? Sterling Shepard or Pat Bryant

Monday, September 22, 11:16 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Sterling Shepard caught 4-of-5 targets for 80 yards in Sunday's 29-27 win against the visiting New York Jets. Shepard sneakily climbed up to Tampa Bay's second-leading receiver with his second straight four-catch outing -- trailing only rookie wideout Emeka Egbuka in yards. He's also second on the team in receptions (11), though Egbuka, Mike Evans, and running back Bucky Irving are all tied ahead of him (14). Despite this, his 15 targets on the season thus far are quite a bit behind Evans (27) and the rookie (21). Moreover, Tampa Bay is attempting a pass at the ninth-fewest rate through three weeks, meaning the passing pie won't be big enough to support him when veteran Chris Godwin (ankle) returns. Shepard still may have some productive outings, but his floor could soon be alarmingly low.

Saturday, September 20, 12:26 AM

Denver Broncos wide receiver Pat Bryant could be pushing for more playing time after registering his first career statistics last weekend. The rookie caught two of three targets for 18 yards in Week 2, and his solid showing could lead to more opportunities in the passing game when Denver takes on the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 3. Of course, Bryant will still have to earn his targets. Courtland Sutton and Troy Franklin have both established themselves at the top of the pecking order, while Marvin Mims Jr. will maintain a moderate snap share thanks to his deep-threat role. However, Bryant still has a chance to carve out a role of his own. He's worth monitoring in deeper leagues and stashing on the bench in dynasty formats. However, he shouldn't be started for the time being. His position on the depth chart and matchup against a strong Chargers secondary are a little too concerning.